April 2018

Each year we devote an issue of Strictly Business to the construction industry in the North Country. In some issues we’ve featured large construction companies like Luck Brothers. In others we’ve looked at new projects in the area like Tall Pines condos, located in the south end of Plattsburgh. This time we’ve included three large re-dos/expansions and profiles of several small but growing companies headed by millennials.

We begin with Corey Boire, founder of Tick Tock Group, a company that focuses on short-term construction projects. As the population ages and leisure time becomes more precious, the ability to find talented people to handle small to medium sized jobs is critical. Boire and his crew have created a niche in the construction industry and are reaping the rewards for their creativity.

Our next two articles—the major renovations at Whiteface Mountain and the new construction at the Plattsburgh International Airport—showcase what the investment of millions of public dollars means to the North Country. Don’t miss the details of these projects.

Another article you won’t want to miss is our feature on Ryan’s Masonry. Starting from scratch, Ryan Smith has built a company known for the quality of its work and its impressive reputation. After a devastating fire that destroyed the company’s headquarters, the Smiths learned first-hand the good will their hard work and generosity had built in the community. This is a great North Country boy makes good story!!

Although he never planned to own a construction company, Eric Duquette has done just that. From building houses to reclaiming a 19th century farmhouse, Duquette is known for the quality of his work. The farmhouse project was a labor of love for his wife, Heidi, and the result is the Orchard House which offers very special private events. This unique setting allows Heidi an opportunity to show off her culinary talents and also showcases Eric’s work.

For those of us who have spent decades in the North Country we’ve seen the Hotel Saranac, on the main street in Saranac Lake, go from an historic landmark hotel to a sad eyesore, and now to a showpiece for all to enjoy. Completely redone by the Roedel Companies, the hotel had a soft reopening in January and is now available for the summer tourist season. Read our article and go for a visit. You will be amazed at what has been accomplished.

And then there is our Insight article featuring Cathy Dove, president of Paul Smith’s College. Cathy is a long way from her previous job in New York City, but has had no trouble fitting into our region and finding things she enjoys in the Adirondacks.

We wrap up this issue with business-focused advice on mental health concerns in the construction industry written by Bonnie Black of Behavioral Health Services North and guidance about at-will employment in New York State contributed by Jacki Kelleher, an attorney with Stafford Owens’ law firm.

Garry Douglas has the last word as he tells us about the North Country Chamber’s recent visit to Ottawa and all that was accomplished.

You might think doing an annual issue of SB about construction would be difficult. Are there enough interesting people and companies to write about? After 28 years of construction issues and going strong, the answer is a resounding ‘Yes’. Construction never seems to stop in our area and that’s good for business.

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